Autism and Neuroinflammation: Live with Dr. Theoharides

This is my Instagram Live with Dr. Theoharides from the other day.

What This Video Is About:

In this powerful Q&A, I sit down with Dr. Theoharis Theoharides—an internationally recognized expert in mast cells, neuroinflammation, and autism—to answer questions directly from parents. We talk about how inflammation in the brain may contribute to autism-related challenges, the role of allergies and stress, how to identify and address comorbidities, and what families can do to support their child’s health naturally and effectively.

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Questions and Answers from the Video:

What’s the connection between autism, allergies, and inflammation?
Mast cells can disrupt the blood-brain barrier and release inflammatory molecules. This neuroinflammation can affect areas of the brain tied to behavior, like the amygdala. Many autistic kids or their parents also experience allergic conditions like eczema or asthma, which are linked to mast cell activation.

Is autism caused by neuroinflammation? Can it be reversed?
Autism isn’t a disease, but inflammation may contribute to certain symptoms. In some cases, reducing inflammation and addressing comorbid issues (GI problems, eczema, food sensitivities) may help reset brain function and improve quality of life.

What role does genetics play, especially MTHFR mutations?
Genetics may increase risk, but it’s not the full picture. MTHFR mutations can interfere with folate processing. Folinic acid and methylfolate help bypass these issues. Testing for folate receptor antibodies (FRAT test) is also important.

Can a child react to food without showing positive allergy tests?
Yes. Kids can have food sensitivities or mast cell activation syndrome, which won’t show on standard IgE allergy tests. Reactions can be internal, especially during periods of stress.

How does stress affect food sensitivity?
Stress can trigger mast cells, making a child suddenly react to foods they normally tolerate. When stress levels drop, sensitivity often improves.

What’s the difference between folic acid, methylfolate, and folinic acid?
Folic acid: needs receptors and MTHFR enzyme to work.
Methylfolate: active form, still needs receptors.
Folinic acid: bypasses both and is often the most effective for kids with absorption issues.

How can I tell if my child has neuroinflammation?
Common signs include regression, behavior changes, GI issues, and sensory sensitivity. Bloodwork like IL-1, IL-6, MMP-9, and neurofilament light can sometimes detect inflammation.

What labs should I ask my doctor about?
Tests to consider through Quest or LabCorp:
• IL-1, IL-6
• MMP-9
• Neurofilament Light
• IgE, IgG4
• DAO, COMT, MAO
• Vitamin D3, B12, Folate
• TSH
• Optional: FRAT test (folate receptor antibodies)

Are there natural ways to reduce neuroinflammation?
Yes. Dr. Theo recommends:
1. Folinic acid + Methylfolate
2. Luteolin-based flavonoids (like NeuroProtek®)
3. Vitamin D3 (2000 IU/day)

What are your thoughts on vaccines and spacing them out?
Vaccines are necessary, but some children may be more sensitive if they already have immune system challenges. Spacing them out and monitoring reactions (especially fever) may reduce risk.

What is the “fever effect”?
Some kids improve temporarily when they have a fever—showing better behavior, communication, or focus. This may relate to how the immune system shifts during fever.

Do you recommend stem cell therapy?
The research is still early. Stem cells may help some gut issues but are unlikely to fix “broken brain connections.” Most autism symptoms stem from disrupted communication in the brain, not loss of brain cells.

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Helpful Links from the Video:

Learn about mast cells and inflammation:
https://www.mastcellmaster.com

Dr. Theoharides’s background and research:
https://www.drtheoharides.com

NeuroProtek® (brain-supporting supplement):
https://algonot.com (Save 5% with code ROB5)

FRAT® Test (Folate Receptor Antibody):
https://www.fratnow.com

MTHFR Support and Info:
https://www.mthfrsupport.com

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Like, share, and comment with your questions—we’re planning a Part 2 soon!

#autism #neuroinflammation #mastcells #parentingautism #theautismdad #autismresearch #DrTheo #autismsupport

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